In this episode, I explain how I teach writing using a skills-first approach, and why strong writing instruction shouldn’t start with essays.Instead of working backward from essay types alone, I focus on building foundational writing skills that transfer to every genre, every subject, and every state test. I break down how I structure writing instruction across the year so students practice what matters most before essays ever begin.I share:What a skills-first writing program actually looks like in grades 4–8The six core writing skills my students practice all year (and why the first three matter most)How daily sentence combining improves grammar, sentence structure, and clarityWhy quick writes eliminate writer’s block and build writing staminaHow I use CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) instead of RACE across ELA, science, and social studiesHow I teach essay structure by deconstructing student writing, not memorizing formulasWhy short, focused essay cycles lead to stronger writing and less gradingHow this approach builds real confidence before state testingI also share one of my favorite end-of-year moments, when students rewrite a piece from the first week of school and see just how much their writing has changed.If you’re looking for a clearer, more effective way to teach writing in upper elementary or middle school, this episode walks you through the structure, routines, and mindset behind a skills-first writing classroom.Recommended for: Grades 4–8 teachers, ELA teachers, writing coaches, and homeschool educatorsReady to dive into my full year curriculum? Go HERE.Thoughts? Questions? Send me a text message!➡️ Learn more about the FULL Structured Writing training PD 📆 Grab my yearlong writing planner for free (it includes my eBook!) 🎥 Watch the teaching strategies in action on YouTube 📝 Read the latest blog posts for writing tips & ideas HAVE A QUESTION? Email me at [email protected]

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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